There is a wide range of hues and strengths of blue diamonds who get their color from the presence of Boron over millions of years. From sweet ocean blue colors to steal dark blue, these diamonds are extremely rare and the darker the color the more valuable that diamond becomes.
The color intensity scale of blue diamonds is used to describe the strength and saturation of the blue color within the diamond. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses a scale specifically for blue diamonds, ranging from Faint Blue to Fancy Vivid Blue with varying degrees of color intensity in between.
The GIA grading scale for blue diamonds includes the following categories:
1. Faint Blue: Diamonds in this category exhibit a light and subtle blue hue that is just noticeable. The blue color is relatively pale and may have a touch of gray or other undertones.
2. Very Light Blue: These diamonds have a slightly stronger blue color than faint blue diamonds, but the color remains relatively light and delicate.
3. Light Blue: Diamonds in this category display a noticeable light blue color. The blue hue becomes more apparent and may show a touch of vibrancy.
4. Fancy Light Blue: This category describes diamonds with a more pronounced and distinct light blue color. The blue hue is noticeable and may have a touch of pastel-like charm.
5. Fancy Blue: Diamonds in this category exhibit a medium-level blue color. The blue hue is more substantial and vibrant, making the diamond visually captivating.
6. Fancy Intense Blue: Diamonds in this category display a high level of blue color saturation. The blue hue is strong and rich, creating an intense and captivating visual effect.
7. Fancy Deep Blue: This category represents diamonds with a deep and intense blue color. The blue hue is rich and concentrated, giving the diamond a striking and alluring appearance.
8. Fancy Vivid Blue: This is the highest grade of color intensity for blue diamonds. Diamonds in this category display an exceptionally vivid and saturated blue color. They are extremely rare and highly prized.
Regarding the number of color hues in blue diamonds, they can exhibit various shades and undertones within the blue color range. Common color hues of blue diamonds include pure blue, steely blue, grayish-blue, greenish-blue, and violet-blue. The specific number of color hues can be subjective and difficult to quantify, as each blue diamond can possess its unique combination of color characteristics.